For many people approaching retirement, the idea of moving into a retirement village brings up concerns about losing autonomy or privacy. But for Patricia Keogh, the experience has been anything but limiting – in fact, she calls it “magical.”
Patricia is a new resident at Aveo’s The Newstead Residences, a luxury vertical retirement village in Brisbane’s inner north. From her ninth-floor, one-bedroom apartment with sweeping views of the city and Story Bridge, she says the lifestyle feels like “a permanent holiday in a luxury hotel.”
“I moved in early December last year and for the first few weeks I kept expecting someone to tell me it was time to check out and go home. It just seemed too good to be true,” she said.
Now settled in and feeling completely at home, Patricia made the move from another retirement community in Logan to be closer to her family following the passing of her husband.
“My daughter Judy lives here in Newstead with her family and encouraged me to move closer. Now I’m just a five-minute walk away instead of a 45-minute drive.”
A lifestyle of connection and convenience
A keen walker, Patricia takes daily strolls along the nearby river paths – and even occasionally runs into her granddaughter Tilly along the way.
“I no longer drive, but I can easily hop on a bus or ferry to the city. The Gasworks precinct downstairs has everything I need – supermarkets, cafes, doctors, dentists, an optometrist and a chemist.”
Life at The Newstead Residences is designed for ease, comfort and enjoyment. The 19-storey community includes an impressive line-up of resort-style amenities: an a la carte restaurant, bar, cinema, gym, community centre, library, treatment salon, billiards, virtual golf, outdoor bowling green and a rooftop viewing deck.
“There are so many lovely places here to entertain my family, but we all love the rooftop area,” Patricia said.
“We recently spent a fun afternoon using the golf simulator and playing snooker. The staff really encourage us to bring family along and make use of everything.”
Family connection at the heart of it
Tilly, Patricia’s granddaughter, says seeing her grandmother flourish in her new home has been heartwarming.
“I feel lucky to have Gran living so close, and I love being part of the community that’s welcomed her so warmly,” Tilly said.
“My mum and I now have a regular rooftop wine night with Gran every fortnight – it’s our little tradition on Level 19.”
Patricia says her apartment is just the right size for her lifestyle.
“It suits me perfectly. I still cook for myself with my oven, dishwasher and air fryer, and I get some help with cleaning, but I manage well on my own.”
She enjoys the security and support of village life, with services like concierge assistance for maintenance and a helpful Community Manager, Brendan, always available.
“I’m very independent and happy in my own company, but I enjoy morning tea with the other residents on Wednesdays and concerts on Sundays. I’ve been making new friends too.”
“I have no regrets at all. It’s the best move I could have made.”
About The Newstead Residences
Aveo’s Newstead Residences offers one, two, and three-bedroom apartments ranging from $395,000 to $1,050,000. The community is designed for those seeking luxury, independence, and connection – all in the heart of one of Brisbane’s most vibrant suburbs.